“We have some of the finest singers in the world that come from the Philippines. It’s a cultural touchstone to want to perform. It’s just led me to acting and I'm very, very proud that I've had many, many years of success,” he said.

The Filipino-American actor is earning raves for his portrayal of a hard-working father in the indie film “Filly Brown”.

The 51-year-old actor burst into Hollywood in the 80s with his standout performances in "La Bamba" and "Stand and Deliver."

With a career that has spanned nearly 30 years, the actor has been seen in hundreds of roles.

He also enjoys his work behind the camera. “I'm directing a film this year called "Tao Surfing" where I'm actually playing a Filipino role,” he said.

He will also be back on the critically-acclaimed television series "Longmire" which premieres its new season this month.

Lou grew up in Texas but having been born in the Philippines to a Filipino mother, the actor never forgotten his Filipino roots

“I have very, very fond memories of climbing mango trees and pulling fish nets when I was in Candelaria,” he said.